The Secretary-General remains deeply concerned by the continuing discriminatory policies imposed by the Taliban on Afghan women and girls, which affect every aspect of their lives. Restrictions on their full participation in public life, education and many areas of work violate their fundamental rights and remain a critical impediment to Afghanistan’s economic development, stability and reintegration into the international community.
Tomorrow, 7 September, marks one year since Afghan women have been prevented from accessing UN compounds across the country. These restrictions are contrary to international law, including the UN Charter, and undermine the organization's capacity to carry out its mandate and deliver life-saving and other assistance to the Afghan people at a time when needs remain high.
Unhindered access for all United Nations personnel to their places of work is critical to fulfil our mandate, and to reach and support vulnerable people, especially women and girls, in accordance with cultural practices. Ensuring that women can deliver humanitarian assistance and essential services to women and girls is critical to an effective and principled response.
The Secretary-General reiterates his call on the de facto authorities to immediately reverse the ban on Afghan women working for the United Nations and to ensure their safe and unhindered access to UN premises throughout the country.
He further urges the de facto authorities to lift all restrictions imposed on women and girls and to uphold their rights to full, equal and meaningful participation in all aspects of Afghan society.
Stéphane Dujarric, Spokesman for the Secretary-General
New York, 6 September 2026
